New Delhi [India], September 10 (ANI): The matter regarding the directive issued by DGHS that "Dr" is reserved only for registered medical practitioners and physiotherapists not being entitled to use the prefix "Dr", is under further examination, official sources said on Wednesday.

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, had earlier given directions that physiotherapists should not use the prefix "Dr", stating that they are not medical doctors. A letter written by Directorate General of Health Services, Dr Sunita Sharma, to Dr Dilip Bhanushali, National President, IMA, said that an official committee had reiterated that persons with qualifications in physiotherapy “are not entitled to use the prefix ‘Dr’ under any circumstances whatsoever”.

“It is hereby directed that the usage of the prefix "Dr." for physiotherapists in the Competency Based Curriculum for Physiotherapy - Approved Syllabus 2025 be removed forthwith. A more appropriate and respectful title may be considered for graduates and postgraduates of physiotherapy, without causing ambiguity to patients or the public,” said the letter written on September 9.